Churchdown locals ‘collateral damage’ in Gloucestershire cycle lane work

Councillor Ben Evans said the daily lives of people in Churchdown had been disregarded

People living near part of a 26 mile cycle route that is currently being built have been described as "collateral damage" in the construction

Gloucestershire county councillor Ben Evans said people in Churchdown have been "disregarded" while the Bishops Cleeve to Stroud path is built.

Residents living near-by have experienced long travel delays.

Environment and planning cabinet member David Gray said the path "will provide a safe route for cyclists of all ages".

Some people have faced 50 minute commutes from Churchdown Village Junior School to Imjin Barracks - a journey which should only take a few minutes.

The cycle route will pass through Cheltenham and Gloucester (pictured)

Mr Evans expressed support for schemes that promote walking and cycling, but was critical of how this project had been carried out, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

"The implementation of the cycle lane has completely disregarded everyone who lives in Churchdown," he said.

"We've been collateral damage throughout.

"I am praying for the end of the project so that the people who live in Churchdown are left to get on with their daily lives."

The cycle lane will connect Bishop's Cleeve to Stroud via Cheltenham and Gloucester.

Mr Gray said: "This 1.2 mile section through Churchdown will be complete in the early summer and will provide a safe and direct path for all ages and abilities to use.

"Inevitably, with the construction of such a big project, there will be some disruption.

"We've kept residents up to date at each stage of the project, including thoroughly consulting on the design of the scheme, and appreciate their patience as we near completion of this section."